Ghana’s Parliament to Debate Controversial Anti-LGBTQ Bill

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has instructed the Business Committee to schedule the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025, widely referred to as the anti-LGBTQ bill, for consideration in the next parliamentary session.

The bill, which seeks to criminalize LGBTQ activities, has sparked intense debate both within Ghana and internationally, as the country grapples with balancing traditional cultural values with human rights concerns.

“The bill has gone through all the processes in accordance with the Standing Orders of the House. I therefore direct that the bill be scheduled by the Business Committee to be presented to the House for consideration,” Bagbin said.

This directive follows a Financial Impact Analysis indicating that the bill would not impose any financial burden on the national treasury, as required under the Constitution.

In a formal statement to Parliament on Tuesday, Speaker Bagbin confirmed that the bill meets all constitutional and procedural requirements for presentation before lawmakers.

Ghana’s Parliament has previously seen heated debates over LGBTQ rights, with human rights groups urging lawmakers to reconsider the legislation, warning it could strain Ghana’s international relations and affect foreign aid.

The Speaker also ordered that the Constitution of Ghana (Amendment) Bill 2025, which lapsed during the 8th Parliament, be reintroduced for parliamentary consideration. 

Elvis Andoh